Report sees shift to candy promotion during Easter seasonResearch from Market Track found drug stores changed their marketing focus this Easter, placing greater emphasis on candy than on games and toys. "In a year-over-year comparison, a definite shift in strategy can be seen among drug stores," the report said. "Candy promotions start earlier, drop significantly the second week and then spike the week before Easter." Drug Store News
(4/24)

Price is top factor in deciding where to shop, study findsIn a study by The NPD Group, more than 80% of shoppers in all age and income brackets said price is an extremely important or important consideration when choosing a place to shop. Consumers can "compare prices on the Web while at home or while standing in a brick-and-mortar store with their smartphones," said John Deputato, senior vice president of advanced analytics. "We certainly have moved to a time of calculated consumption for shoppers, and price has come to the forefront of the purchase decision." Progressive Grocer
(4/24)

Inflation beginning to take small bite out of 2012 confectionery salesDollar sales from the latest 52 weeks in food, drug and mass outlets (excluding Walmart) are up 4.5% for total candy and gum, while units are off 1.4% according to SymphonyIRI period ending March 18. The units drop is driven mainly by higher retail pricing. Contact Larry Wilson.

Candy and health presentations at Experimental BiologyWork showing that candy is a small treat and is not linked to obesity or heart disease was presented during the American Society for Nutrition's symposia at Experimental Biology this week. An oral presentation on Sunday discussed the indications that frequency of candy consumption is not associated with obesity or heart disease risk factors. A poster presentation on Tuesday showed that candy is generally consumed by the U.S. population in moderation. Contact Laura Shumow.

U.S. and Canada outline ways to ensure imported-food safetyThe U.S. and Canada unveiled plans to improve the safety of imported food. The FDA released the Global Engagement Report, detailing a plan that includes more international offices. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency wants importers to develop a plan to identify, report and recall potentially dangerous products. FoodNavigator
(4/24)

International

Turkish confectioner Elvan turns 60Elvan Food, founded 60 years ago, is now the third-largest exporter of confectionery products in Turkey. The company employs about 1,500 people and sells products including chocolates, cakes and jelly candies to more than 100 countries. CandyIndustry.com
(4/18)